Massage & Your Immune System

Although many of us seek out massage for relaxation, or to relieve sore muscles, one of the most important benefits of massage is the boost it provides to our immune system.

Massage stimulates the lymphatic system, helping to remove waste and transport immune cells throughout the body. This increase of immune cell flow helps to enhance our body’s ability to fight infection. Massage also lowers stress hormones such as cortisol - hormones that can suppress immune function - thus offering further support to our body’s natural defense system.

Some studies have demonstrated that massage can increase the count and activity of white blood cells, a key part of the functioning of our immune system. Additionally, by supporting better circulation and reducing stress, massage reduces the inflammatory messengers in our body, further strengthening our body’s response to infection.

Massage is another great way to help boost your immune system & keep you healthy.

For me, this is one of those aspects of massage many are not aware of. We see massage as something we do for relaxation, or perhaps to deal with sore muscles from an intense workout, but we don’t know about all the other benefits. Or, more problematically, we see massage as an “indulgence” instead of what it is - an essential part of our health care routine. And so, I hope the next time you’re feeling run down, and perhaps taking extra vitamin C or drinking elderberry tea, you will also schedule a massage to supercharge your immune system.